WESTFIELD – Gerald G. Godere, 74 of Westfield, passed away Thursday peacefully surrounded by his family. Gerry was born in Holyoke and was the beloved son of the late Harry Joseph and Grace Alta (West) Godere. Gerry was raised in Southwick and a graduate of Southwick High’s class of 1964.
He worked at Wolf’s garage than went on to serve in the US Army 50th Maintenance Company. He received the good conduct, national defense and expert rifle medal. Gerry made a career as a truck driver and was a member of Teamsters Local 404. He spent many years working for Smiths Transfer before retiring from Roadway in 2000 with 30 years safe of driving. During his retirement he worked part time as a security guard at Stanley Park. He spent many hours rebuilding his Model A with his friends from CT Valley Working A’s of Southwick. One could often find him relaxing and watching a Clint Eastwood movie but most of all Gerry will be most remembered for his personality and ability to make people laugh. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice. A memorial service will be held at the convenience of his family.
He was also predeceased by his wife Prudence Louise (McEwan) Godere in 2000. Gerry leaves behind his son Gerry J. Godere with Mary Beth Tichy and their son Cole Godere, his daughter Andrea L Marge with her sons Jayden and Justin Marge. He also leaves his sister Sherill Kotowski with her husband Alexander and their daughter Kimberly, his brothers David and Richard Lees, several nieces and nephew and was predeceased by his sister Joan Taylor.
